Breastfeeding Truths From Mums Around The World Revealed

From night feeds to feeling guilty, statistics have shown which areas of breastfeeding mums struggle with most

We all know the benefits and positive parts of breastfeeding, but it does come with it’s own set of challenges – for mums all over the world, a new survey has revealed.

In a survey of over 13,000 pregnant women and mums in nine countries (including the UK) by breastfeeding accessory company Lansinoh, women were asked about their parenting experiences, including their thoughts on breastfeeding.

84 per cent admitted they think breastfeeding is ultimately the best way to feed a baby

There’s no doubt that breast milk is bursting with health benefits for babies – something that 85 per cent of the UK mums gave as their reason for breastfeeding.

And 84 per cent admitted they think breastfeeding is ultimately the best way to feed a baby, whether they breastfeed or not themselves.

But what do mums around the globe find most challenging about parenthood? Waking up for night feeds, mum guilt and breastfeeding challenges.

We all know those 3am night feeds aren’t that much fun and unsurprisingly a third of British mums agreed. In fact, 63 per cent said that they would feel guilty if they didn’t breastfeed. Germany is the only country where over half of the mums don’t feel guilty for not breastfeeding.

63 per cent said that they would feel guilty if they didn’t breastfeed

While breastfeeding in public shaming is a hot topic in the UK at the moment, these stats show that British mums aren’t actually bothered by it. Only 18 per cent of those polled find it embarrassing, 63 per cent say it’s perfectly natural and 17 per cent see it as unavoidable. Although two per cent did say they think it’s wrong.

Chinese and French mums are more concerned by breastfeeding in public and have the highest percentage of mums who find it embarrassing.

And how about how long babies should be breastfed for? WHO recommends it’s for at least six months – something that mums in seven of the polled countries, including the UK, agree with. Whereas in France, mums think three to six months is enough and in Turkey mums see 12 to 24 months as best.

Do you agree with the findings? Let us know in the comments box below.

Just because you’re breastfeeding, you don’t have to hide away at home. Otherwise you (and your baby) may end up with cabin fever, as well as overdosing on daytime telly. So pack a few muslins and head out – but first read our dos and don’ts to help breastfeeding in public work for you.